International Relations Theory for the twenty-First Century:
An introduction Martin Griffiths
Why International Relations (IR) is important? It goes beyond peace and war, past poverty and
business; rather it explores the key players in world politics, intrinsic political patterns, and
identifies the theories for how resolution and cooperation can be reached.
Why IR theories are important? They allow to understand and try to make sense of the world
through various lenses, each of which represents a different theoretical perspective.
IR theories in the twenty-first century are inextricably pluralistic. The following stands out to be
of high importance and the most commonly known; Realism, Liberalism, Critical Theory,
Constructivism, English School, and Post-Colonialism
By: Research Office – Department of Training – Political Education Division – Lebanese Forces Party